Section 8: Duntroon to Oamaru [54km]

Overview

54kmFitness: IntermediateSkill: EasyTraffic: MediumGrade: 3

Section 8

From Duntroon head south-east along the footpath and over the Maerewhenua bridge, then follow the off-road trail through several farms to the unique rock formations known as Elephant Rocks 7km. Ride through to Prydes Gully Rd, then continue off-road through Island Cliff 13km which is surrounded by limestone escarpments. Ride up the track beside Karara Creek to Cants Rd which takes you to the high point of the section. Drop down Peaks Rd then Tunnel Rd to the Rakis Railway Tunnel 26km where there is a toilet and picnic spot. The Tunnel is over 100m long and bends in the middle - as a result natural lighting is extremely poor. Please remember to take a bike light or headlight, otherwise please walk your bike through. There is a camber to the tunnel's Trail surface which is also rough in places.

Follow the old railway line to Windsor 32km then the off-road trail takes you through to Enfield 42km and onto Weston 48km where you rejoin the old railway line for a flat run to Saleyards Rd. Follow the sealed cycle way downhill to the Oamaru Gardens. Bike through the gardens, across SH1, then through the park to the main street (Thames Street). Turn right into the far lane and ride south past the i-SITE, turning left on Itchen St, right onto Tyne, then left onto Harbour St. Go through the Victorian Historic Precinct to the Oamaru Harbour where the trail ends at Friendly Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

Trail Status

Section 8:- Useful Information

Occasionally a pivot irrigator crosses the Trail. If it is working you may get wet briefly - take care - the Trail can get a little washed out in those areas.

In places farm stock tracks cross the Trail - somne organic matter should be expected. If you encounter stock approach quietly and they will let you pass. Sometimes a gate or temporary wire will be across the track allowing stock to pass across the Trail. If you discover something like this please cross and make sure you leave the gate / wire as you found it.

Rakis Tunnel is over 100m long and bends in the middle - as a result there is little or no ambient light in the middle of the tunnel. Please take a torch or headlamp - failing that please walk you bike through, as the surface in the tunnel is uneaven in places and for safety you will need to see what is in front of you.

Both the Cycle Trail and and weather conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly. Please check the Trail Status and the weather reports at least daily before departure.